Quebec City is a captivating blend of history and European charm. But sometimes, you need to escape the city and explore the surrounding countryside. That’s exactly what I did on a half-day tour of the Côte-de-Beaupré region and Île d’Orléans, which I booked through Get Your Guide, and it turned out to be the perfect breath of fresh air.
I debated whether to take this trip on my last day in Quebec. After walking down every cobblestone street multiple times in the past few days, popping in and out of shops and restaurants, I figured it was time to extend my reach beyond the city walls. I met the tour bus at the same location I had for the Hotel De Glass tour a few days earlier. I just hoped others would be on the bus with me this time. The dynamic is so much better when more people ask questions and interact with the guide.
Leaving the enchanting Old Quebec behind, I joined a small group with our friendly, knowledgeable guide. The group included me and two recently retired ladies, Susan and Janine, from Toronto. Susan retired after 25 years of selling incinerating composting toilets, and Janine worked as a bookkeeper for a law firm. I was now absorbed into their girls’ trip. We set off in the minibus, making the journey along the scenic Chemin du Roy a breeze. This historic road, stretching 40 kilometers, offered glimpses into rural Quebec life, a world apart from the city’s cobblestone streets.
Tour Stop One – Abert Gilles’ Copper Art Studio
Our first stop was a delightful surprise: Abert Gilles’ Copper Art Studio. Seeing the intricate work and learning about the artist’s craft was fascinating. Started by their father, Abert Gilles, the studio was now operated by his daughter and niece. Upon our arrival, we were shown a demonstration of how lightly carving sheets of copper become intricate works of art. There is no room for error. Once the copper is bent, it cannot be corrected. The artist must create the carving in reverse and carefully press parts of the design further out to create the detail. I watched the artist quickly but carefully bring a flower design through a once-flat piece of copper. It was like watching a magician perform a card trick.
Afterward, we explored the rest of the studio. One section was dedicated to the history of copper sculpting. Pictures of Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré Basilica front doors, where we would be going next, were shown as they were being created. Another section was a winding hallway displaying copper plates made by Abert Gilles during his lifetime. Most of these, if not all, were inspired by biblical themes. The majority of the studio was retail space; clocks, wall sculptures, and jewelry filled the center. My new friend bought matching bracelets, hoping they would ward off arthritis. I stood by our tour guide while waiting to return to the bus. He handed me a tiny white bag and told me not to open it until we got on the bus. When no one was looking, he secretly took the demonstration piece we had just seen the copper artist create and gave it to me as a gift. My first thought was how sweet, and then my second was, I guess I’m an accessory to a crime now.
Tour Stop Two – Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré Basilica
Next, we arrived at the magnificent Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré Basilica, named after Jesus’s grandmother (on his mother’s side, of course). I attended a lot of Bible school as a kid, and it never dawned on me that Jesus had a grandmother or that she was a Saint. But here I am, standing in front of the large copper doors that adorn the church entrance that bears her honor. Its sheer scale and beauty are breathtaking. We had 45 minutes to explore its ornate interior, marvel at the stained-glass windows, and soak in the spiritual atmosphere.
The Church is structured with two distinct levels, each serving a unique purpose. The lower level is an intimate space designed for church services and weddings, exuding a serene atmosphere. This area is enveloped in vibrant blue mosaic tiles that shimmer with light, extending from the polished floor right up to the intricately adorned ceiling. The walls are adorned with a captivating array of tile images, each telling a story and showcasing remarkable craftsmanship. The exquisite details and vivid colors of these mosaics are so mesmerizing that they draw the eye in, making it difficult to focus on anything else at the moment.
The main level of the basilica is reminiscent of the grand European churches scattered throughout France, each one a testament to architectural mastery. Its beauty is nothing short of breathtaking, enveloping visitors in an ambiance of opulence and exquisite detail.
Hand-carved wooden benches are meticulously arranged, and mosaic pathways guide the eye toward the elevated stage at the front. There, a cross stands majestically above the pulpit, serving as the focal point. Towering columns rise to meet the ceiling, their intricately designed capitals supporting an arched roof that is adorned with vibrant red and white mosaics, creating an interplay of color and light.
As I stood in this magnificent space, I couldn’t shake the feeling of insignificance (religion is good at doing this)—I seemed to shrink against the grandeur surrounding me. Every feature appeared magnified, as though the very essence of the room imbued each inch with intricately carved motifs and meticulously arranged tile work, ensuring that my gaze was drawn from one marvel to the next.
Tour Stop Three – Montmorency Falls
Our journey from the spiritual realm shifted to breathtaking natural wonders as we arrived at Montmorency Falls, a destination I had eagerly anticipated. As an outdoor enthusiast, I am always drawn to nature, and this stop initially seemed promising. However, I must admit it turned out to be quite disappointing. I can only imagine how lively the falls must be during the warmer months, but in the chill of winter, many of the attractions were closed for the season.
My new besties and I ventured as far as the boardwalk allowed, which was merely a hundred feet or so, yet it offered a clear view of the half-frozen cascade. The waterfall was striking, the icy edges creating a jagged contrast against the flowing water below. Conversation flowed as they talked about the thunderous beauty of Niagara Falls. I told them that was on my list, and they suggested I experience it from the Canadian side on my next trip. We snapped a few pictures to capture the moment, our breaths visible in the winter air, before turning back toward the bus, our excitement somewhat tempered.
Tour Stop Four – Ile d’Orleans
As we navigated the winding, narrow roads, our knowledgeable tour guide enthusiastically pointed out the island’s oldest house, a beautifully preserved structure dating back to the early 1800s. With detailed narratives about its intriguing past, we learned about the flourishing wine industry that thrives here and the significant roles the island played in historic wartime events.
The entire landscape was a serene snapshot of 19th-century rural life, with quaint houses dotting the horizon and lush, rolling hills stretching as far as the eye could see. Our journey took a delightful turn when we stopped at a local chocolate shop, a cozy nook filled with the rich smell of cocoa. I indulged in velvety hot chocolate, each sip warming us from the inside out while we savored the island’s enchanting atmosphere.
Fin
The return journey to Quebec City was equally enjoyable, with our guide sharing interesting facts and anecdotes about the region. The entire tour was well-organized, and the pace was perfect. It was a great balance of guided exploration and free time to wander and discover.If you’re looking for a relaxing and enriching experience outside of Quebec City, I highly recommend this half-day tour with Get Your Guide. It’s a fantastic way to discover the beauty and charm of the Côte-de-Beaupré region and Ile d’Orleans, leaving you with lasting memories of your Quebec adventure. From the stunning basilica to the powerful falls and the idyllic island, this tour offers a taste of the Quebec countryside’s diverse landscapes and rich culture. It’s an experience I won’t soon forget.
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